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Doc Rivers made it clear how he feels about Jason Collins well before the veteran center’s sexuality was a topic of discussion. Now that Collins is “out,” Rivers sounds more proud of him than ever.

“I am extremely happy and proud of Jason Collins,” Rivers said in a statement on Monday. “He’s a pro’s pro. He is the consummate professional and he is one of my favorite ‘team’ players I have ever coached.

“If you have learned anything from Jackie Robinson, it is that teammates are always the first to accept. It will be society who has to learn tolerance. One of my favorite sayings is: ‘I am who I am, are who we are, can be what I want to be. [It’s] not up to you, it’s just me being me.'”

In early April, when Collins returned to Boston for the first time since the Celtics traded him away in February, Rivers called Collins “the best.” The coach is still singing the same tune.

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